Mitigation Strategies for Long-Term Corrosion in CFST Structures: A Systematic Review

Concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) structures are widely used in modern infrastructure due to their superior strength, ductility, and composite action. However, long-term corrosion of the steel tube, particularly under aggressive environmental conditions, poses significant challenges to their durability and structural performance. This study presents a comprehensive review of corrosion mechanisms and mitigation strategies for CFST structures. The primary corrosion processes, including general corrosion, localized (pitting) corrosion, and circumferential corrosion, are critically examined with emphasis on the influence of chloride ingress, carbonation, marine exposure, and combined environmental actions such as freeze–thaw cycles and sustained loading. The effects of corrosion on structural behavior are analyzed in terms of load-carrying capacity, ductility, buckling resistance, and failure modes. A systematic evaluation of existing mitigation strategies is conducted, encompassing material-based approaches, protective coatings, cathodic protection systems, and structural strengthening techniques such as fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP), fabric-reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM), and steel jacketing. The comparative performance of these methods is assessed based on effectiveness, cost–benefit considerations, service life extension, and practical implement ability. The review highlights that no single mitigation strategy is universally optimal; instead, integrated approaches combining multiple techniques provide the most effective long-term protection. Key research gaps are identified in the areas of long-term performance monitoring, internal corrosion detection, and durability modeling under combined environmental actions. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for the design, maintenance, and rehabilitation of CFST structures, contributing to the development of more durable and sustainable infrastructure systems.